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Some rooms have expansive views of Algies Bay.
Elderly couples separated by dementia will have some comfort thanks to a new dementia unit which opened at CHT Amberlea in Algies Bay last month.
The facility is made up of 15 units, including a double room for a couple with dementia if the situation should arise.
Unit manager Cara Kelly says there is a gap for dementia care in the area with few providers between Wellsford and Orewa.
The first two beds have already been assigned to patients from West Auckland. Both are women whose elderly husbands live in Warkworth and who have had to travel to see their wives of more than 50 years.
Cara says dementia is the fastest growing care needed in New Zealand.
The new unit includes a lush but secure outdoor deck complete with a herb garden, as well as an indoor quiet sensory room.
Phase two will add a secure walkway around the perimeter of the unit to allow residents to be outside and feel less confined.
A new activities coordinator will provide scheduled activities.
“This is important for residents’ quality of life,” Cara says.
She says offering a rest home, hospital and dementia service under one roof means current residents who develop dementia will have continuity of care.
CHT Amberlea has a contract with the Waitemata DHB to offer the rooms at a standard price. It also offers premium rooms for additional cost.
Amberlea has a resident population of 55.
